October 2, 2016
Passage:  Malachi
Speaker:  Bill Knepper
Main Point:  Obedience is key to joy.

I. God’s love is evident through history.  (Past)
         A. God chose Israel for His blessing.   (v1:1-5)
         B. When we look over our shoulder we see His love.  

II. Living in obedience ensures our joy.  (Present)
         A. The priest of Israel did not obey.   (v1:6-2:9)
                  1. Despised worshiping.    (v1:6)
                  2. Defiled the altar.   (v1:7)
                  3. Corrupted instruction.   (v 2:7-9)
         B. The people of Israel did not obey.   (v2:10-3:18)
                  1. Betrayed marriage vows.   (v2:13-16)
                  2. Stingy giving.   (v 3:8-12)
         C. The place of joy is the center of His will.  
                  (v 2:10 – the one place in the Bible where God says that it is OK to test Him)

III. The Lord’s promise gives us hope.  (Future)
            A. The Lord will return.  
            B. We must live by faith.